Need advice on timing chain replacement

[MKVR3208]

Hi all,

I have been directed to this forum to get some advice about a timing chain replacement.

Background info:
- 2008 MKV golf r32
- 180,000km
- Full service history

I was told after a recent service that the timing chain may need to be changed. Apparently the car has been logging "intermittent" cam phase sensor faults between services for a while now. There is no rattling sound coming from the engine and I was told it should be done as a preventative measure. The quote I received was between 7-8 thousand to replace the timing chain. I've done a little research and feel this may not be quite right.

In need of advice or any experience anyone can offer. Feel free to ask any questions as I am happy to give more information if required.

[rgh0]

How have "they" determined chain replacement is required apart from "their" desire for a $5000k labour fee

Buy yourself a Ross-Tech VCDS cable and download the software and analyse the cam position sensors to see what's going on. The Ross-tech website is a source of good information on this.

At 180K kms I would not expect chain wear to be a problem on a properly serviced car using the correct oil and if not trying to do any "longlife oil service" regime in a VR6 R32 engine. Other issues may cause a problem such as hydraulic tensioner malfunction or chain guide wear but most of these result in chain rattle.

cheers
Rohan

[MKVR3208]

They only thing they have done to suggest replacing the timing chain is seen the cam phase sensor log "intermittent" faults between services, no other diagnostics or assessments have been made to determine the conditions of the timing chain.

[h100vw]

The chains do wear, as do the guides and tensioner. Expecting a car with 180k to have had a perfect service history isn't realistic in my experience.

It's most likely that new chains and guides will fix the intermittent issue. And of course the cost is high. Probably using genuine parts.

[rgh0]

If the issue is intermittent and not present at the time of the scan it may be due to a number of transient issues such as oil pressure on start up until the tensioner and chain is fully tight or until the oil pressure is sufficient for the cam timing adjuster mechanism. I personally would use my VCDS cable to analyse How often and when the condition arises before spending a large amount of money on chain replacement. if you don't have one get one, its a lot cheaper than trusting dealer or other workshop scans

cheers
Rohan